A Sleepy Mallard

[Desmond Chan]

D300 200-400@280 on tripod. Manual exposure mode, no flash; ISO 800 f7.1 1/500 sec.

I was actually waiting for the buffleheads to get closer (they never did). Then I turned around and saw this fellow. Since I was just waiting and so thought I might as well practise pressing the shutter button.

I have done nothing to the water.

Cropped the top and left a bit, minimal color enhancement and sharpening, and strengthened contrast with Levels.

I'm OK with the eye (closed?) but your opinion may differ.

C&C welcome and appreciated !

[Lance Peters]

Hi Desmond - I like - the water is gorgeous - great colours and details. Like the composition - given him a little room to swim in to.

A winner in my books :)

[Gus Cobos]

Hi Desmond,
Very nice composition indeed. I also like the soft colors and the soft pastel background. the details are nice and sharp, and I like the angle that he is swimming. I personally like an open eye; but like you stated in the title, this little guy was sleepy...hehehe:D anyway...wellpresented...good show...:cool:

[Nonda Surratt]

Shutter button practice is a good thing. Really super detail and spot on exposure. I'm sorta with Gus,wish the eye was more sleepy or more open.

[denise ippolito]

Agree w/ Gus about eye - This is a very nice shot w/ good detail and colors

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Good exposure and details Desmond. Like the framing too. Guess hard to find them with the eye completely shut as they may always be on guard for predators. ??

[Harold Davis]

i wish the eye was open. it would be one killer image!! nice job with the colors!!!

[Alfred Forns]

Hi Desmond The eye probably the most prominent feature Sure would like to have it open !!

[Jeff Cashdollar]

I love this shot, ducks grab sleep when ever they can.

Regards

J$